FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

APHA mourns Orlando shootings, ongoing epidemic of violence

Washington, D.C., June 13, 2016 — The American Public Health Association today expressed its sympathies for those affected by yesterday’s shootings in Orlando, Florida, and its deep dismay over the tragic epidemic of gun violence affecting our nation.

"We extend our sincere condolences to the individuals, relatives and community members harmed by the senseless tragedy that occurred Sunday in Orlando," said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, executive director of APHA. "This event — the single largest mass shooting in our nation’s history — led to the death of at least 50 people with many more injured. We are particularly troubled that members of the LGBT community were targeted."

"While it is too early to fully understand the events leading up to this tragedy, we know this is just another all-too-common episode in our national epidemic of gun violence. In fact, the Orlando incident is the 133rd mass shooting this year in the U.S. where four or more people have been killed by gunfire.

"We are grateful to the first responders who helped prevent further bloodshed and provide emergency care to those in need. As we go forward, we urge the administration, Congress, public health and safety officials and other leaders to work together to better understand the culture of violence affecting our nation and identify common sense solutions."

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The American Public Health Association champions the health of all people and all communities. We strengthen the public health profession. We speak out for public health issues and policies backed by science. We are the only organization that influences federal policy, has a 140-plus year perspective and brings together members from all fields of public health. Visit www.apha.org.